5 Safety Must-Knows For Every Move

Moving to a new home is a lot of work. However, one aspect that you shouldn’t overlook during the planning process is safety. Taking proactive steps to stay safe during a move can avoid serious injuries. Here are five safety must-knows for every move.

1. Don’t Overpack Boxes

Heavy lifting can easily lead to injuries and, coupled with stairways, wet weather, and other hazardous factors—if not careful, the move might equate to disaster. As a general rule of thumb, try not to pack more than 40-50 pounds in a small box, 55-65 in a medium box, and 60-70 in a large box. For larger cartons, aim for lightweight items too awkward or bulky to fit in smaller boxes—the more manageable the boxes, the less chance of anyone stumbling or dropping them.

2. Lift With Care

Poor lifting techniques can lead to back, arm, or leg injuries, some of which can develop into long-term health problems. Correctly lifting boxes can reduce the chance of injury.

• When lifting a box, always bend at the knees (not the hips!) and keep the back straight (neutral) to ensure you distribute the weight properly.

• Lift with your legs to take pressure off the back; legs have much stronger muscles than backs do.

• Position feet shoulder-width apart and, when lifting, position the box close to the body to make it easier to maintain good balance.

• For heavier containers that require two people, coordinate how you will carry those boxes so that both individuals are on the same page.

• Take smaller steps when carrying heavy objects and be careful about twisting or bending.

Safely lifting is all about maintaining a good posture and positioning—and never shying away from asking for help if a box is too difficult to manage.

3. Create a Clear Pathway

Moving day is hectic, and chances are there’ll be boxes, bags, and furniture scattered throughout the home. Before moving day, create clear pathways in each room to ensure it’s easy to get through. Remove any trip or slip obstacles, both indoors and outdoors.

4. Wrap Knives and Other Sharps

To avoid cuts and lacerations, carefully wrap knives, kitchen gadgets, gardening tools, and similar items. This way, no hands are injured when packing and unpacking. Covering these items also ensures that cardboard boxes aren’t punctured and prevents injuries from lifting compromised boxes.

5. Plan Safe Space for Children and Pets

Planning a safe space for children and pets increases the safety factor for all involved. This can be in a designated room where the door can remain closed (if children are younger, a person who can watch them) or at someone else’s home. Children or pets caught underfoot can get seriously injured, and those doing the moving tasks can also be hurt if they trip or move the wrong way trying to avoid a child or a pet.

Moving Made Easy

Hiring a moving company is one of the best ways to avoid injury. These professionals know how to lift and do it quickly and efficiently correctly. If you’re considering a full-service move, skilled movers also know the best ways to wrap fragile and sharp items that can cause injury.

For a free quote, contact us today!